A Simple Guide to Cloth Diapers

We understand cloth diapering can seem very daunting, especially how there seem to be SO MANY different systems, brands and materials out there. Fret not! Here’s the 101:

1. All cloth diapers require 2 things:
   (i) A waterproof outer cover (also called the “cover” or “shell“)
   (ii) An absorbent inner layer (also called the “diaper“, or sometimes, the “insert“)
2. For additional absorbency, optional absorbent layers may be added to some diapers (also called “inserts” or “boosters“)

Not so hard to understand right? Just 2 things!

Next, the 201…

There are 6 main types of diapering systems:

• All-in-One (AIO) diapers
  • Inserts and covers are generally attached to each other
  • Usually the design provides a pocket of sort for optional additional boosters to be added if needed
  • eg. the Mother-ease Wizard Uno
• All-in-Two (AI2) diapers
  • Inserts and covers can be separated for washing, but snapped together for wearing
  • This allows for covers to be reused more than once if not too soiled
  • eg. the Mother-ease Wizard Duo
• Fitted diapers
  • The “fitted diaper” usually refers to the whole diaper which is the absorbent layer
  • Some fitted diapers can  be worn without covers for short periods to provide for more breathability
  • Covers can be worn on top of the fitted diaper to provide waterproofing
  • eg. the Mother-ease Sandy’s Diapers
• Flats or Pre-folds
  • The “flat” or “pre-fold” usually refers only to the absorbent layer
  • These are usually large pieces of cloth which can be folded to provide a customised fit and absorbency preferred
  • Covers can be worn on top of the flats to provide waterproofing
• Pocket diapers
  • Inserts and covers usually sold separately, where the “pocket” usually refers only to waterproof cover
• Pull-Up diapers
  • AIOs or Pockets with elastics to allow for the whole diaper to be pulled up and down while the child is standing up
  • Some have fully elastic waists (much easier for child to pull up and down on their own) while others have side snaps (usually require adult to help with pulling up and down)
  • Some provide full absorbencies of usual diapers while others provide less absorbency as they are meant to be worn as trainers to catch accidents while the child is potty-training
  • eg. the Mother-ease Bedwetter Pants (full absorbency) and the Mother-ease Big Kid Training Pants (trainers)

And…that’s it! Not too hard either right? If you’re keen to begin trying out cloth diapering but are not sure where to start, fret not. The best option is to try before you buy AND get someone to hand-hold you through the process! Check out our Cloth Diaper Rental and Mentoring Services for a better idea.

The most important part about cloth diapering is the laundry. Again, not that difficult. Check out this washing guide and you’ll be all set!